A new build of Windows 10 has leaked, revealing some new features that Microsoft planned to unveil in January. Build 9901 shows yet more changes to the desktop interface, which has already been given a significant makeover in earlier builds.
The most noticeable change is the addition of a search box in the taskbar, placed to the immediate right of the reinstated Start button. This will allow users to search for files on their PC or perform a web search (using Bing, naturally) without first having to open the Start menu or use keyboard shortcuts. In Windows 8.1, users are able to search by typing directly on the Start Screen, but with the Start Screen hidden for laptop/desktop users in Windows 10, Microsoft seemingly felt it needed a way to make the search function more obvious to users.
The new buid also integrates Microsoft's voice assistant, Cortana, into the search bar. This appears to be largely identical to Cortana on Windows Phone, letting users speak commands or ask questions such as "play Beatles music", "what's the weather like today?" or "latest Manchester United score" (they beat Liverpool 3-0, since you asked).
Leaked screenshots of Build 9901 suggest Microsoft's also planning to do away with the traditional Control Panel. The exisiting Windows 8.1 Settings menu already replicates many of the functions of the Control Panel, and now it seems Microsoft will merge the two to avoid further confusion.
Other additions to the new build include a revamped Xbox app, which shows achievements, friends' status and activity feeds.
Build 9901 is available to download from a variety of file-sharing sites, although Microsoft is warning that installing the unofficial build will make it impossible to update in place to later releases of Windows 10. Those who are participating in the official Technical Preview are unlikely to be offered Build 9901 until the new year. "There is a bug in 9901 that breaks flighting, you'll need to upgrade through ISO," tweeted Windows engineering manager, Gabe Aul.
Aul is, however, fairly relaxed about Windows fans getting their hands on the leaked code. "How could we be upset about lots of people wanting to try our new stuff?" he tweeted, before adding: "We'd prefer you stick to official builds though."
Microsoft is due to release a Consumer Preview of Windows 10 on 21 January, with the operating system due to be completed by the summer, for a likely autumn release.